Sheffield goalie goes from Auschwitz to Attercliffe

Goalie Dalibor Sedlar could be playing in an elite league in Europe - yet he has settled in Sheffield with the EPL side Steeldogs.

The 25-year-old was a starting goalie with Unia Oswiecim near Auschwitz, Poland until he badly injured his ankle. After five months of recuperation, he started seeking a job and washed up last season at the iceSheffield team, following a call from his friend, Lubomir Kohorn, who plays for Andre Payette’s team.

Having proved his fitness, he could have moved elsewhere. But he says the welcome in Sheffield persuaded him to stay at Steeldogs, this term.

“I am happy I am here” he says. “Andre and Steeldogs helped me after injury, so I am here for the season.” The club, he said on video at thestar.co.uk, has a family feel: “After the games we meet the fans and have a few beers.”

Sedlar also trains youngsters and students at iceSheffield. But he is focussed on this weekend’s games, which start against Slough in a League/Cup game at home tonight. Mid-table Dogs can become a “top four” side, he said.